Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B- 71 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B- 71 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Livingston, Missouri, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1994.


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Summary

The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction along the Big Creek, with a height of 14 feet and a hydraulic height of 12 feet. The dam spans 595 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 204.8 square miles.

Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, the Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B- 71 dam plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in the area. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates indicate a reliance on natural drainage mechanisms. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP), its strategic location and design contribute to its effectiveness in mitigating flood impacts and protecting downstream communities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of the Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B- 71 dam as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Missouri. The dam's construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and operational oversight by the local government highlight the collaborative efforts to enhance water management practices. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, understanding the role of dams like Big Creek-Hurricane Creek B- 71 becomes essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

595

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

204.8

Nid Storage

93

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.